Emergency Preparedness for Older Adults: Proactive Tips in Case of a Natural Disaster

Emergency preparedness for older adults is important in case of a natural disaster.

Tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters arise quickly, and while it’s crucial for all of us to have an emergency plan set up, it’s extremely important for senior loved ones, who may be challenged with mobility or chronic health concerns. Since September is National Preparedness Month, it’s the perfect time to make sure the older adults you love are well-equipped and prepared for a potential emergency. Taking these three steps is a good place to start when considering emergency preparedness for older adults.

Establish an emergency plan. This should include assigning a primary person (or multiple people) who can be responsible for checking up on the individual during a natural disaster, and who will then communicate that information to the senior’s family and friends. Put together a list of contact information for every person who must be informed, and make sure each person has a copy of the list. The plan should likewise explain an evacuation protocol, and who will help the senior with evacuating the property, if required.

Put together an emergency supply kit. The CDC suggests the following items be stored together in an easily-accessible place for usage in the event of a crisis:

Water, nonperishable groceries (including pet food if applicable), and medications to last for a minimum of three days

Flashlight and extra batteries

First aid kit

Manual can opener

Hand-crank or battery-powered radio

Blanket or sleeping bag

Change of clothing

Wet wipes, paper towels, and hand sanitizer

Copies of important documents in a waterproof container (see below)

Fire extinguisher

Gather important documents. In a crisis, the very last thing you’ll want to do is scramble to find necessary paperwork. Put copies of the following documents in a waterproof box or bag:

Contact details for loved ones and friends who must be alerted during an emergency

Partnering with an experienced Portland dementia care agency, like Anthem Home Care, is a great way to make sure the seniors in your life will be well cared for in case of a natural disaster or some other emergency. We’re prepared and proactive, with a plan in place for providing the care needed for seniors each and every day of the year, rain or shine, always keeping family and friends informed about any and all concerns.